Review Articles
Vol. 13 No. sp5 (2026): Recent Advances in Agriculture
Seed coat matters: Exploring physical and biochemical composition influences on seed quality-A comprehensive review
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Directorate of Seed Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
Directorate of Seed Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
Directorate of Seed Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
Directorate of Seed Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
Directorate of Seed Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
Department of Physical Sciences and Information Technology, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India
Abstract
Seeds are fundamental units of agricultural production and their quality is strongly influenced by the structural and functional properties of the seed coat. The seed coat, a maternally derived tissue originating from ovular integuments, plays a pivotal role in protecting the embryo, regulating water uptake, controlling gas exchange and mediating interactions with the external environment. This review comprehensively examines the development, structure, genetic regulation, physical and chemical composition, factors affecting development and functional significance of the seed coat. It particularly emphasises on its physical and biochemical composition and its influence on seed quality characters. Physical compositions such as seed coat colour and thickness significantly contribute to germination, vigour, dormancy, longevity and resistance to pests and diseases. Biochemical compositions, including polyphenols (phenolic acids, tannins, flavonoids, lignin), structural polysaccharides, alkaloids, lipids, waxes and specialised proteins are primarily contributed to protection mechanisms like mechanical strength, impermeability, antioxidant capacity and defence against pathogens and insects. The review also highlights the genetic mechanisms underlying seed coat development, including key regulatory genes and transcription factors. The environmental, hormonal, nutritional and genetic factors affecting seed coat formation are also critically reviewed. Therefore, understanding the complex interplay between seed coat composition and seed performance provides valuable insights for crop improvement, seed technological aspects and sustainable agriculture. The future research needs on functional genomics and innovative seed coating technologies may further enhance seed quality and crop productivity in agriculture sector.
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